Source · Select Committees · Transport Committee
Recommendation 15
15
Paragraph: 51
HGV drivers should not park overnight in laybys or other unsuitable locations.
Conclusion
HGV drivers should not park overnight in laybys or other unsuitable locations. It leaves drivers vulnerable to crime and is not conducive to rest and recuperation. Yet some drivers are forced to do this as managed facilities are full, while others choose to, either to save money or because the available facilities are poor. The only way to tackle HGV parking in laybys is to build new facilities and upgrade existing ones Road freight supply chain 33 to ensure there are enough spaces for all drivers. Only when drivers are not able to argue that there is nowhere else to park should penalties for parking away from managed facilities be increased.
Paragraph Reference:
51
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Government recognises the need to ensure hauliers have access to appropriate services and facilities and believes that the private sector is best placed to deliver new capacity and high-quality facilities for drivers. The Government is gathering evidence on HGV parking and facilities in England and commissioned a ‘National Lorry Parking Survey’ early this year. The full survey will run for twelve months and enable us to understand what improvements are most needed and where they are most needed. The survey will be published early in 2023. This evidence will assist industry in improving the quantity and quality of HGV parking and be used in the matched-funding grant we are launching later this year. The £32.5M scheme will invite applications from operators to fund improvements to HGV driver facilities such as improved shower and washroom facilities, catering areas, security lighting, barriers and perimeter fencing, or capacity improvements. In addition, National Highways will be investing £20m of existing funds in improving roadside facilities for freight drivers on the strategic road network.